For many boomers, they are tackling this phenomenon as their “boomerang kids” show up on the doorstep, college-degree in hand, asking for a temporary rent-free environment while they figure out their next moves. In 2001, Statistics Canada reported that 32% of parents whose youngest child was between 20 and 34 years old had at least one child living at home with them. Of these parents, one-quarter were in fact living with a child who had returned to live with them after already leaving once (or more). Six years later, and these numbers continue to rise. Another national study found that 55% of boomers contribute to an amount to supplement an adult child after they leave school.

But boomers with boomerangs listen up. You can stage an intervention. A new HGTV television series called “GUESS WHAT—YOU’RE MOVING OUT” will surprise adult kids with a “gentle but firm nudge” to move out of their tired parents’ home. The show will conspire with siblings, cousins, friends and parents, to “toss the baby bird” (baby?) out of the nest and give them a fantastic nest of their own.The show is looking for adult kids between 25-35 living in New Jersey who can afford to leave home, but don’t feel they are quite ready to pay the bills. “GUESS WHAT—YOU’RE MOVING OUT” will not kick the child “to the curb,” but will help them make the transition. Sound interesting? If so log onto casting@bigcoatproductions.com or www.myparentshouse.com to download an application form—and give a friend or relative a little nudge (better than dynamite).

Amanda Sobanet